Who Should Apply?
You may earn your Graduate Certificate in English Language Learner (ELL) Education online from The University of North Dakota while you continue to live and work in your own community. You are not required to come to campus at any time!
UND's online ELL Education program prepares professional teachers to enter a growing field of education where they can teach English to speakers of other languages and serve culturally diverse student populations. The curriculum is designed to allow you the flexibility to focus on rural ELL / ESL education in K-12 schools, adult TESOL education, or teaching English abroad.
Certified Teachers or Non-Certified Professionals
The part-time online program is designed for:
- certified teachers preparing to teach English to speakers of other languages.
- certified or non-certified individuals who wish to study and do research in the area of ELL / ESL education.
- non-certified individuals working in related professions who wish to gain knowledge and skills in the area of ELL / ESL education.
ELL, ESL or TESOL Teaching Certification & Licensing Guidelines by State
Teacher licensure is not required for admission into the program. Completion of UND's online ELL Education program does not lead to initial teacher licensure.
If you plan to teach, please check with your state's teacher licensing board to verify if UND's online Master of Education in English Language Learner Education program will meet your state's requirements for an endorsement or credential in ELL, ESL, or TESOL teaching.
You may also visit the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDEC) for more information.
Admission Requirements for the Graduate Certificate in ELL Education
- Bachelor's degree in education or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- An undergraduate GPA of 2.75 overall or a GPA of 3.00 in the last 2 years of your undergraduate program.
- A minimum TOEFL score of 550 on the paper-based test or 213 on the computer-based test for all applicants whose native language is not English (not applicable for those who received a bachelor's degree from the United States or English-speaking Canada). Refer to admissions information on the UND School of Graduate Studies website for details.
- Completion of a criminal background check prior to beginning the ELL practicum experience for those not currently employed with or teaching in a public K-12 school.
For detailed information on admission requirements and the application process, please refer to the UND School of Graduate Studies.
Military Personnel & Veterans
Our University is proud to serve those who serve our country. Through UND Online & Distance Education, you can take advantage of convenient programs and services that fit your life as a military service member, veteran or family member. Learn more.
